A Step-By-Step Guide To Door Lock Car Repair
A Step-By-Step Guide To Door Lock Car Repair
Blog Article
How to Troubleshoot Door Lock Problems Before Calling a Mechanic
You can also use a lock pick or key opener to assist. You can spray linseed or penetrating oils into the lock in order to lubricate and make it move freely.
It is however not a task for the home-owner who isn't a professional, and it is best left to a licensed and certified locksmith. Here are four key lock issues that they can solve:
Power door locks don't work
Power door locks provide excellent convenience, but they also introduce a lot more complex mechanisms to the car. That means that there are a lot more possibilities for things to go wrong, too. If the door lock actuator isn't working it could be a major issue that requires professional assistance. Before calling a mechanic, try some simple ways to troubleshoot.
The first thing to check is the battery in your key fob. If the battery is dying or near death it will cause the locks to not work. This problem is easily and cheaply solved by replacing the battery.
Another potential problem is that the power actuator itself may be faulty. This is a typical issue that is generally easy to diagnose. You can test with a multimeter if the power is reaching or not. If power is present however the actuator does not respond when you press the button for locking doors, then it could be time to replace the actuator.
You can also clean the contacts on the door lock actuator. This is a bit more involved than simply cleaning switches however it's usually enough to resolve the issue. To do this, you'll need remove the actuator from the door panel and then take it off. There are typically bolts holding the exterior of the lock body together take them off and then take off the entire surface of the actuator.
After removing the actuator, be careful not damage the rod connecting it to the locking mechanism. Two bolts are typically located within the interior of the doors that house the rod. Be sure to remove them too. After the rod has been removed, you can open the door and check the latch to make sure it is properly aligned with the locking post.
If it's not an option, you can make use of a long, thin object to place between the door panel and the lock. This should open the locking mechanism, so you can unlock the door by hand.
The key fob isn't working
If your car key fob isn't working, it could be an unpleasant experience. There are several things you can do to make it work. First, you can try changing the battery. This simple step could save you from needing to purchase a new fob. YouTube offers a variety of useful videos that show you how to accomplish this in just a few easy steps.
If this doesn't help, you may have to reprogram the fob. In the majority of cases, this can be handled by an expert. It isn't easy because newer cars come with security features that must be properly configured.
Your fob may also be damaged. Physical force, water, or scratches on the circuit can cause damage. Oftentimes, this damage isn't obvious and can only be detected by opening the fob and looking inside. You can look for these issues by looking at the fob for signs of damage, including cracks in the circuit board, teeny electronic components that are not connected to the circuit board, or buttons that are not in good condition. You can also open the fob in order to remove the battery and take a closer look. Using a flathead screwdriver, you can typically break open most fobs and gain access to the battery however some require specialized tools or equipment only available at the dealership of your car.
You can also try using the physical key to open your car doors in the event that the fob isn't working. If your physical key does not unlock your car, you might need to contact an expert locksmith for more extensive repairs or visit a service center.
A faulty ignition cylinder could be the reason for your key fob not turning on or starting your vehicle. This is usually a very more info expensive fix, and it's best left to a professional. However, if the key fob works perfectly with the door locks, it should still be able to start the car using its inductive backup system.
The lock is jammed
If you are unable to turn your lock it is likely that something is blocking the mechanism. It could be as simple as the tumblers becoming clogged by rust or dirt, or the pins may be stuck in an partially raised position. The first thing to try is to lubricate the mechanism of the lock. Spray a dry lubricant like RP7 or graphite spray in the keyway and then insert the key a few times to release any debris that is stuck in the lock cylinder. This will also lubricate and protect the mechanism.
You can also use brake cleaning fluid to help lubricate the parts of a lock cylinder and remove any rust or grime that could be obstructing the tumblers. You can purchase brake cleaning fluid at most home improvement centers or at auto supply stores. Make sure not to use oil-based products such as WD-40 since they can keep clogging the mechanism over time.
Another issue that can cause the door locks to get jammed is that the door frame has changed over time due temperature and weather fluctuations. The deadbolt or latch on the door might not align correctly with the hole on the frame. This issue is easily solved by tightening hinges and reinstalling damaged or damaged screws.
It's always recommended to inspect the condition of your door locks regularly. This will help prevent them from getting damaged or jammed and help you avoid the hassle and expense of calling a locksmith assistance. If you discover that you have a locked vehicle or a damaged door lock Do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic who you trust for assistance and advice. They can identify the issue quickly and recommend the best option. Whether you are seeking a quick fix to your power doors or a more serious issue, they'll be happy to help!
The lock is jammed.
Stuck locks are a frustrating and often inevitable part of owning a vehicle. Whether the lock is stuck in an unlocked position, or won't turn at all, you're going be looking to fix it sooner rather than later before your problem worsens. Fortunately, there are a few easy and quick solutions that will get you out of this sticky situation.
Begin by looking at the lock to determine what is blocking its proper operation. A screw or foreign object could have become loose. If one of these scenarios is the case, you may be able to resolve the issue by cleaning the lock, or tightening the screw. You can also straighten or fix the balls of your lock if they are bent or damaged because of repeated use.
Another reason for a stuck lock is that it's worn out and not responding to the jiggling. If your lock stops turning when you move it around, it's likely time to replace the lock and make sure that it's properly keyed.
If your lock is stuck and no amount moving it around, spraying lubricant or adjusting the knob seems to help, you will probably need to call an expert locksmith. They can safely remove a locked that is stuck without creating further damage to your car or door.
Sometimes, the cylinder in the lock may be damaged. This could happen in the event that the lock was forced open in the past or the lock problem was not fixed. You should check your cylinder for signs of corrosion and wear regularly, and replace the cylinder if needed. This will ensure that your car is as secure as possible. If the lock cylinder is damaged or cracked it could pose dangerous for your passengers and you. So be sure to have any damaged cylinders repaired in the earliest time possible.